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Boston, MA

Activities of EFA's Boston chapter will be posted here. For additional information, contact Indu Shanmugam and Tanya Gold, chapter coordinators, at chap_boston AT the-efa.org. You must be an EFA member to join an EFA chapter. Chapter events are open to all members, guests of members, and freelancers interested in joining EFA.

Next Meeting

TBA

TBA

Previous Meetings

Potluck Picnic in Cambridge

Tuesday, August 8, 2017

We figured it was about time to get together and catch up. And what better way to do that than sitting outside and eating for a couple of hours?

Bring some food to share and meet us in front of the main branch of the Cambridge Public Library.

Meet the new chapter coordinator, Indu, say goodbye to Susan, and tell Indu and Tanya all of your hopes and dreams for EFA Boston's future.

We look forward to seeing you there!

Tuesday, August 8th, 2017
6 pm to 8 pm
On the Green in front of the Cambridge Public Library
449 Broadway
Cambridge, MA 02138

The library is a short walk from the Harvard Square T station, and there is a parking garage at the library that is open to the public.

(Rain date: August 15th)

Expanding Your Freelance Business

Wednesday, March 1, 2017

Editing can be a fulfilling career, but sometimes that's not enough. Whether you need more income or a new challenge, you're ready to do something new in your business. Copyediting owner and publisher Erin Brenner shares 11 ideas for expanding your freelance business.

Erin Brenner is the co-owner and publisher of Copyediting, a brand that offers skill and career support for copyeditors. Erin also runs Right Touch Editing, teaches in UC San Diego's Copyediting certificate program, and is a frequent speaker at editing-related conferences. Follow her on LinkedIn and SlideShare.

The talk will be at Impact Hub Boston in the Edison Conference Room on the 16th Floor at 50 Milk Street Boston, MA 02109 on Wednesday, March 1, 2017 at 6:30 pm (networking at 5:30 pm).

The closest T stop is Downtown Crossing. The entrance to the building is on Devonshire Street. Please check in at the desk with a photo ID.

Join us beforehand for networking at Render Coffee, the cafe on the ground floor, beginning at 5:30 pm.

Book Design Made Simple, with Glenna Collett

In our first meeting of 2017, book designer and author Glenna Collett will be speaking about expanding your business to include book design.

She will talk about programs you can use, provide a demo of InDesign with some tips to help you pick it up quickly, and show you where to get design ideas.

Glenna Collett is a retired book designer with 42 years of experience in the field. She is the co-author of Book Design Made Simple: A Step-by-Step Guide to Designing and Typesetting Your Own Book Using Adobe InDesign. The book has won several national and regional independent publishing awards. http://www.bookdesignmadesimple.com/

The talk will be at Impact Hub Boston in the Windrose Conference Room on the 5th Floor at 50 Milk Street Boston, MA 02109 on Tuesday, February 7th, 2017 at 6:30 pm (networking at 5:30 pm).

The closest T stop is Downtown Crossing. The entrance to the building is on Devonshire Street. Please check in at the desk with a photo ID.

Join us beforehand for networking at Render Coffee, the cafe on the ground floor, beginning at 5:30 pm.

RSVPs appreciated but not required. RSVP at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/expanding-your-freelance-buisness-tickets-32065198873

Networking in Porter Square

Wednesday, December 7, 2016

Join us for a networking event at the Panera in Porter Square, Cambridge, on Wednesday, December 7, from 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm.

Come enjoy a pumpkin spice latte, a croissant, and the company of your fellow freelance professionals!

How to Work with Independent Authors, with Tanya Gold and Melissa Wuske

Tuesday, October 18, 2016

There are more and more opportunities for editors to work directly with writers — authors seeking a publisher, authors who are self-publishing, academic writers, bloggers, and more. With such a diverse audience with diverging expectations, it's important to be prepared.

Tanya Gold and Melissa Wuske will share their tips and strategies on setting expectations, establishing good communication, talking about pricing, and giving effective feedback so that you can create a positive working relationship, use your time efficiently, and be an asset to the writers who hire you.

Tanya Gold is an independent editor and writing coach. She works on fiction, memoir, poetry and technical content. Tanya has over 15 years of experience in publishing and an MA in writing. She enjoys helping authors develop their manuscripts, polish their language, improve their writing skills, and navigate the complex world of publishing.

Melissa Wuske has been freelancing since 2011. Prior to that she was an editor at Writer's Digest Books. She specializes in holistic edits of nonfiction trade books, including how-to, self-help, reference, and memoir. She partners with independent authors to make sure their books convey their expertise to their desired audience. She also copy edits and proofreads for publishers, writes book reviews, and edits articles for magazines and websites.

The talk will be at 6:30pm at Impact Hub Boston, in the Aristotle Conference Room. 50 Milk Street (entrance on Devonshire Street), Boston, MA. Please check in at the desk with a photo ID.

Join us beforehand for networking at Render Coffee, the cafe on the ground floor, beginning at 5:30 pm.

Defining Your Personal Brand, with Randall Warniers

Wednesday, September 21, 2016

A brand is a promise of value. You experience this concept every day when you seek out brands you recognize and products you trust. Similarly, your personal brand is a clear and concise communication of who you are, what you do, and what you offer to the world of work. It encompasses not only your job skills but your interests, activities, dreams, and passions as well. Like a good corporate brand, your personal brand represents you in the minds of others and in the employment marketplace. The more effectively you are branded, the more visible you will be, and the more clearly you will express your value as a person and as an employee. This presentation will answer the question: What is a personal brand, why do I need one, and where can I get one? The talk will include a description of all the branding components, and how to frame the content of these components to your own purpose.
Randall Warniers is a freelance editor, book designer, and book publisher who spent nearly two decades in the world of publishing as managing editor of a research journal at MIT Lincoln Laboratory. He is also a photographer and a photography instructor at the Cambridge Center for Adult Education, an instructor in 19th-century British literature at Acton-Boxborough Community Education, and a facilitator and member of the leadership team at Acton Networkers.

The closest T stop is Downtown Crossing. The entrance to the building is on Devonshire Street. Please check in at the desk! The meeting begins at 6:30 pm, but come early for networking at Render Coffee, the cafe on the ground floor, beginning at 5:30 pm. (Buy your own drinks and baked goods.)

How to Get Noticed When Pitching to a Job Board

What does it take to stand out among the fifty or sixty (or more) pitches made in response to a job post on the EFA (or any other) job board? Some common mistakes may be obvious, but many people still make them; and they make a number of other errors that get their pitches deleted. James Buchanan, freelance writer and editor,has been on both sides of the cattle call for job pitches. He will be leading a discussion on how to avoid these mistakes and how to make your pitch tight, compelling, and hard to resist. He'll share what has worked for him and what has caused him to reject (many) email pitches. He also has advice regarding writing/editing samples and how to approach the all-important interview.
James Buchanan is a ghostwriter and magazine managing editor with twenty years of professional writing and editing experience. His website and blog are at orchardwriting.com.

Working with Publishers as a Freelancer

Thursday, May 12, 2016

Working with Publishers as a Freelancer

Thursday, May 12, 2016, 6:30 pm; networking at 5:30 pm

Impact Hub Boston, 50 Milk Street, 15th Floor, Boston, MA

How can we, as freelance editors and writers, best serve publishers? Please join us for a panel discussion with local publishers who work directly with freelance editors and writers. Our panel includes Herb Brody, editor at Nature, the world's premier scientific journal, publishing research and news across a wide range of scientific fields; Susan Lumenello, managing editor of Beacon Press, a nonprofit independent book publisher focusing on social issues, including racial and environmental justice and education reform; and Tim Mudie, associate editor at Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, which publishes educational materials, as well as fiction and nonfiction books for children and adults by distinguished authors. Panel members will describe their jobs working with freelancers and tell us what they value most in their freelance colleagues. They will also share their wisdom and insight regarding working inside a publishing house.

The event is being held at Impact Hub Boston, a coworking space near Downtown Crossing. The event begins at 6:30, but come early for refreshments and networking in the Anchor Cafe on the ground floor beginning at 5:30 pm. (The entrance to the building is on Devonshire Street.)

Kick Off the New Year Networking Event

Welcome the new year with this EFA Boston chapter event, open to members of the American Copy Editors Society. After our fall events, we’re delighted to start 2016 with a chance to share resolutions, trade tips, and mingle with fellow editors.
Join us Friday, Feb. 19, at Coalition Boston for networking and socializing in their upstairs space, which offers beautiful views of the city. Catch up with colleagues and meet new ones, tell us about your latest project, and if you’re interested in learning more about freelancing, bring your questions.
Coalition is a coworking community of entrepreneurs, startups, and small businesses. Floor-to-ceiling windows offer panoramic views of our city, including the State House and the Charles River. Surrounded by great restaurants, shopping, and nightlife, it’s ideal for entrepreneurs who live and breathe Boston.

We all know we can better ourselves and coaching helps us discover that path. Are you looking to reach new goals in your business? Improve your work life? Make changes in your personal life? Coaching helps unlock our potential and work toward an expanded version of ourselves.

Coaching examines the type of change that leads you to transition and ways to transform your consciousness to support the best parts of yourself. The fundamental belief in coaching is that who you are is as important as what you do.

During her presentation, Monique will demonstrate how coaching actually works in practice and show how it differs from therapy, consulting, or training. Buchanan is a writer, communicator, sometimes freelance editor, and a life coach in training.

RSVPs appreciated, but not required. RSVP up until the time of the event; print tickets not required. http://bit.ly/1QUjmQ0

Tips, Tools, and Tricks of Freelance Editing

Thursday, October 15, 2015

Robbins Library
700 Massachusetts Avenue
Arlington, MA 02476

Hello dear members, friends, and colleagues!
We are thrilled to invite you to an interactive discussion on Tips, Tools, and Tricks of Freelance Editing.

Please join us for a discussion on ways to make editing more efficient, enjoyable, and profitable. We will meet at 6:30 at the Robbins Library (the Public Library of Arlington). Go down the stairs (or elevator) and follow the red squares on the floor to the community room.
The large panel includes YOU! Please bring you favorite editing or freelance tip, tool, or trick! Think for a moment about a tip, tool, or trick that has made your life as an editor or a freelancer better or more successful. If possible, bring the item with you or at least bring a picture of it (for us visual learners) and be prepared to spend a few minutes describing it to the group.

In October, please join us for Tips, Tools, and Tricks of Freelanced Editing: An Interactive Discussion. Then in November, join us for Life Coaching: Transforming Consciousness with Monique Buchanan.

Editing for the Web

Tuesday, June 2, 2015

Editing for the Web with Erin Brenner

Tues., June 2, 2015
6:00–8:00

Commoncove Coworking
305 Commandants Way
Chelsea, MA 02150
Join us for a presentation on editing for the web. As more content is published online, the need for web editing is growing. Editors should be aware of how reading on the web and writing for the web differ from other formats so they can edit accordingly. Erin Brenner, editor of the influential and authoritative Copyediting newsletter and the site Copyediting.com, will speak to us about principles and good practices of web editing.
Erin Brenner has been an editing professional for nearly 20 years and is sought after for her expertise in language mechanics. She works on a variety of media in all levels of editing, specializing in business publications and web content. She manages and writes for Copyediting.com and the bimonthly Copyediting newsletter and speaks frequently on language topics. In addition to working with clients, Erin teaches copyediting and social media for the University of California San Diego Extension School.
Commoncove is a coworking space for suburban and near-urban workers. Its first location, at Chelsea’s Admiral’s Hill Marina, is Greater Boston’s first coworking space on the waterfront. They offer flexible, affordable memberships to accommodate freelancing schedules and budgets.
We look forward to seeing you!

Secrets of Exceptional Time Managers

Wednesday, March 25, 2015

To a large extent, freelancers succeed based on their ability to use time. In this fun, interactive workshop, productivity expert Hillary Rettig, author of the best-selling 7 Secrets of The Prolific, will share the techniques exceptional time managers use to be as productive as possible. She will also discuss the causes of procrastination and other forms of underproductivity, and provide solutions you can start using immediately to boost your productivity. All the techniques discussed can be found in Rettig's book, which she will be selling at the event at the special discounted price of $20 (cash or check only).

Rettig taught writing productivity at Grub Street Writers for more than a decade, and has also taught at the Mark Twain House & Museum and many other venues both online and offline. Her next book, How to Get Willpower for Weight Loss, applies time management and antiprocrastination techniques to that goal, and will be out this year. Rettig, a native New Yorker and longtime Bostonian, now enjoys life with her partner and dogs in Kalamazoo, Michigan. For more on Hillary and her work, visit www.hillaryrettig.com.

Networking and libations will follow post the event; we encourage you to arrive early to browse the bookstore and to take advantage of Trident's excellent food, wine, and beer during the presentation to support this outstanding Boston institution. RSVPs requested: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/secrets-of-exceptional-time-managers-tickets-15673249110. (Print tickets not required.)

As more content is published online, the need for web editing is growing. Editors should be aware of how reading on the web and writing for the web differ from other formats so they can edit accordingly. Erin Brenner, the editor of the influential and authoritative Copyediting newsletter and the site Copyediting.com, will speak to us about principles and good practices of web editing.

Erin Brenner has been an editing professional for nearly 20 years and is sought after for her expertise in language mechanics. She works on a variety of media in all levels of editing, specializing in business publications and web content. She manages and writes for Copyediting.com and the bimonthly Copyediting newsletter and speaks frequently on language topics. In addition to working with clients, Erin teaches copyediting and social media for the University of California San Diego Extension School.

We look forward to seeing you!

Copyright Law for Writers and Editors

Tuesday, January 13, 2015

In November, attendees heard from a panel of accomplished developmental editors, then stayed for networking and conversation while enjoying wine, cheese, and musical accompaniment at the new Papercuts Bookstore in Jamaica Plain. It was an engaging way to start the season, and we're happy to announce several upcoming events for winter.

In January, join us again at Papercuts for a presentation on copyright law from entertainment and media lawyer Mark Fischer, a partner at Duane Morris LLP in Boston. Copyright law is generating significant debate as new forms of distribution upend traditional models of revenue generation for both individual creators and publishing houses. Fischer, an expert in copyright law, will address current controversies and what you need to know about copyright, both for clients and in your work as a writer or editor.
Details:
Copyright Law for Writers and Editors
With Mark Fischer, partner at Duane Morris LLP
Tues., Jan. 13, 2015
6:30-8:30 p.m.
Papercuts Bookstore
5 Green Street, Jamaica Plain, MA 02130
RSVPs requested here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/copyright-law-for-writers-and-editors-tickets-14637626535. (Print tickets not required.)

We wish everyone a wonderful and productive holiday season. See you in January!

---

Join us for upcoming events!
In February, Erin Brenner, the editor of the influential and authoritative newsletter Copyeditor and its website, Copyeditor.com, will speak to us about principles and good practices of web editing.

And in March, hear from Hillary Rettig (www.hillaryrettig.com), a highly engaging expert on organization, procrastination, and time management for writers and editors and author of The Seven Secrets of the Prolific: How to Overcome Writer's Block, Finish Your Projects and Enjoy Your Life.

Developmental Editing at Papercuts Bookstore in JP

Wednesday, November 19, 2014

November's Boston chapter event, a panel discussion on developmental editing, will take place at Papercuts, a new bookstore in Jamaica Plain owned and run by local EFA member Kate Macaloney.

Wondering how to break into developmental editing, or what it's all about? The following panelists will address these questions and more:

Melissa Wuske (melissaannewuske.com) has been freelancing since 2011. Prior to that she was an editor at Writer's Digest Books; and in what seems like a past life, she was a middle school language arts teacher. She specializes in holistic edits of nonfiction trade books, including how-to, self-help, reference, and memoir. She partners with independent authors--from business owners, to spiritual thinkers, to family historians, or activists--to make sure their books convey their expertise to their desired audience. She also copy edits and proofreads for publishers, writes book reviews, and edits articles for magazines and websites. Melissa is a book club junkie and loves tutoring and mentoring. Her nonliterary endeavors include cooking and swimming. She lives in Jamaica Plain with her husband, who is a minister.

Susan Matheson, MS, has been a freelance editor since 2004. Her specialty is academic copyediting and developmental editing in the humanities and social sciences. Her clients include Baylor University Press, Baker Academic, Anselm Academic, and individual professors and authors. She enjoys developmental editing where she researches new topics, creates a structure for a book, and streamlines complex writing for nonexperts. She recently moved to Cambridge after living in the Midwest for a dozen years.

Brenden Layte is a development editor for National Geographic Learning (ngl.cengage.com), a partnership between Cengage Learning and the National Geographic Society that focuses on the ELT and ESL markets, as well as reference books. He was previously a development editor for Content*Ed Publishing Solutions, whose clients included Cambridge University Press, Cengage Learning, Hodder & Stoughton (Hachette), and Richmond ELT. He received his BFA from Emerson College in Writing, Literature, and Publishing, and is an MA student at Boston University in the Applied Linguistics program, with interests primarily in language acquisition and development, sociolinguistics, and bilingualism.

Panelists will each speak briefly, and, as always, there will be time for Q&A and roundtable discussion.

Kate recently left a position at Little, Brown to pursue her dream of opening Papercuts, and we're excited to check out the space (JP's only independent bookstore!). You can support the bookstore's opening here: https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/papercuts-jp-a-new-indie-bookstore-in-boston/x/8886334. She mentions that she's looking for book recommendations, so feel free to send those her way.

RSVPs requested; print tickets not required. We look forward to seeing you ...

Innovations in Editorial Workflows with Bookbuilders of Boston

Tuesday, October 14, 2014

The Boston chapter is co-sponsoring a panel discussion Tuesday, Oct. 14, from 6-8 p.m. with Bookbuilders of Boston. Featuring EFA members Tanya Gold and Randall Warniers and Sanders Kleinfeld from O'Reilly Media as well as John Rodzvilla, Emerson e-publisher-in-residence, the workshop will focus on innovations in editorial workflows. Learn about how local publishers and freelancers have developed workflows to adapt to the marketplace's digital and print demands. A Q&A will follow the discussion, which is free and open to the public. Note that a valid photo ID is required to gain admittance to the building.

Pearson Education

501 Boylston Street, Boston

9th Floor, in the cafeteria

6-8 p.m.

Welcome Autumn at Trident

Sunday, October 12, 2014

Trident Booksellers & Cafe

338 Newbury St, Boston, MA 02115

Sunday, October 12, 2014, 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM

Welcome autumn with the Boston chapter of the Editorial Freelancers Association. After a summer hiatus, we're delighted to be back with monthly events planned for the coming months (full schedule soon to be announced!).
Join us Sunday, Oct. 12, on Newbury for networking and socializing in Trident's upstairs cafe, which offers a food menu as well as espresso, beer, and wine. Catch up with colleagues and meet new ones, tell us about your latest project, and if you're interested in learning more about freelancing, bring your questions.
Trident, a Boston institution, offers this space for free to support local groups like ours, and the store depends on our support. Please be sure to browse the bountiful shelves for a new volume, and show your support by partaking of Trident's sumptuous food and drink offerings.
RSVP at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/welcome-autumn-with-boston-efa-tickets-13247290001 up until the time of the event; print tickets not required.
We look forward to seeing you!

Copyediting: An Exploration of Style

Join us this month for a talk led by chapter co-chairs Jason Warshof and Kristie Reilly, who will address the fundamentals and intricacies of the trade in "Copyediting: An Exploration of Style." Please email examples of style and usage you have questions about or would like to discuss--from the flummoxing to the irritating--to jwarshof@gmail.com or kris@kristiereilly.com.

This event is designed for beginners to advanced practitioners, with presentation followed by a discussion, and will last an hour and a half. Join us afterward at a nearby watering hole for informal catching up and meeting fellow freelancers.

Jason teaches nonfiction writing and editing classes to both undergraduates and professionals. He edits books with a focus on the Mideast and literature of the city. Kristie is a contented freelancer with nearly 20 years of experience in publishing who has worked for the University of Chicago Press, home of the Chicago Manual of Style. Her current clients span a variety of fields, from law, politics, and travel to philosophy of science, health, and medicine.

WeWork Boston (http://www.wework.com/location/south-station) is kindly cosponsoring this event. WeWork "provides entrepreneurs with beautiful workspace, personalized support, business services, digital tools, benefits, infrastructure, and the flexibility they need to succeed." To learn more about WeWork's locations in Boston, send an email to boston@wework.com and let them know you were referred by our event (and check out http://www.wework.com/location/wework-labs for some appealing options and benefits).

This event will mark Jason Warshof's last in Boston, since he'll be moving to upstate New York soon. Join us in sending Jason off with best wishes and thanking him for his year of service as we bestow the title of official co-chair emeritus and welcome Heather Saunders, our new co-chair. The Boston chapter will resume events in September.

RSVP at http://www.eventbrite.com/e/copyediting-an-exploration-of-style-tickets-11592725153?aff=es2&rank=0 up until the time of the event; print tickets not required.

Join us Wed., May 21, for a talk led by EFA members Randall Warniers and Tanya Gold.

To succeed as a freelance editor in today's competitive publishing world, we need a variety of skills to find the job, land the job, and finish the job. This presentation will summarize some of these skills, including how to cultivate professional relationships, find new clients, leverage social media, promote useful experience, and identify editorial problems. Attendees will be invited to contribute their own work experiences. (If anyone would like to share an example of a pitch letter that resulted in successfully obtaining an assignment, Randall and Tanya would love to make it part of their presentation! You can remain anonymous or not--your choice. Email tanya_gold@hotmail.com or randall@warniers.net with examples.)

The event is designed for beginners to advanced practitioners, with presentation followed by a discussion. The initial segment will last an hour and a half, with the final half-hour reserved for informal catching up and meeting fellow freelancers.

Randall Warniers is a freelance editor, writer, and book designer, working primarily in the field of science and technology publishing. Before going freelance, he spent nearly two decades as managing editor of the Lincoln Laboratory Journal, a biannual research journal published by MIT Lincoln Laboratory. He is also a photographer and an instructor in photography at the Cambridge Center for Adult Education, where he currently teaches "Mastering Digital Photography" and other classes.

Tanya Gold (www.TanyaGold.com) is a freelance editor, writing coach, and publishing project manager. She has an MA in Writing and has been working in publishing for 15 years. Before going freelance, she worked for publishers of poetry, history, finance and investment, and business guidance and regulation. Like many freelance editors, Tanya works on a variety of content, but she finds her work with independent authors and publishers the most rewarding.

WeWork Boston (http://www.wework.com/location/south-station) is kindly cosponsoring this event. WeWork "provides entrepreneurs with beautiful workspace, personalized support, business services, digital tools, benefits, infrastructure, and the flexibility they need to succeed." To learn more about WeWork's locations in Boston, send an email to boston@wework.com and let them know you were referred by our event (and check out http://www.wework.com/location/wework-labs for some appealing options and benefits).

Save the date for next month's event! Join us Thurs., June 18, when chapter co-chairs Jason Warshof and Kristie Reilly will lead "Copyediting: An Exploration of Style." Also at Wework South Station.

Back to the CBC

Wednesday, April 30, 2014

Where: Cambridge Brewing Company, 1 Kendall Sq., #100

In April, we're taking a break from formal events to mingle and network at our old haunt, the CBC. Come out, share ideas, and celebrate the arrival of spring and end of tax season with your fellow publishing freelancers.

We're also delighted to announce two upcoming events: in May, a talk entitled "The Freelance Editor's Toolbox: What You Need to Know to Get the Job" with fellow EFA-ers Randall Warniers and Tanya Gold, and in June, a survey of copyediting style with chapter co-chairs Jason Warshof and Kristie Reilly. Then, we'll break for the summer and resume events in September.

The CBC is close to an affordable parking garage (the Kendall Square Garage; validation available at the restaurant), and the Kendall Square Red Line stop is a short walk away. Ask at the CBC's host station for the EFA group when you arrive.

Look forward to seeing you!

Rick Bornstein: Tips for Tax Time

The fun and education continue for the Boston chapter in early March. Those who braved the icy, driving rains of January can testify that John Wilpers's talk at Workbar reminded us of the innumerable ways freelancers can use the Web as an asset -- not to mention some pretty scary pitfalls to avoid.

Next, join us on Newbury as highly regarded CPA Rick Bornstein draws on twenty-five years of experience to offer insights on navigating tax season. Topics to be covered:

Following Mr. Bornstein's talk, we'll have an hour for networking and socializing in Trident's beautiful new upstairs space. Trident, a Boston institution, offers this space for free to support local groups like ours, and the store also depends on our support. Please be sure to browse the bountiful shelves for a new volume, and show your support by partaking of Trident's sumptuous food and drink offerings.

How Freelancers Can Optimize Their Online Presence, with John Wilpers

Still puzzling over the first steps to setting up your website or blog? Or do you already have an online presence but want to get more out of all the resources out there -- Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, Google+, Tumblr? What about Pinterest, Wix, Weebly, or Flavors.me? Where is your social media time best spent?

Our January speaker, John Wilpers, has helped scores of independent professionals and major media companies cut through the confusion and answer these questions. Mr. Wilpers is a veteran journalist and new-media consultant who has consulted with newspapers and magazines in Norway, Germany, Saudi Arabia, England, Korea, Ukraine, and Austria. His U.S. clients have included the Los Angeles Times, Christian Science Monitor, Reuters, GlobalPost.com, Miami Herald, San Diego Union-Tribune, and BostonNOW. Mr. Wilpers also founded and runs Degrees2Dreams (http://degrees2dreams.com), which advises a broad range of employment seekers, from recent graduates to mid-career professionals, as well as trains college career counselors on how enhanced new-media profiles can lead to the right job.

Workbar is "a web of communal workspaces where freelancers, start-ups, and remote employees of larger enterprises can enjoy high-quality office amenities at an affordable price." One of the Boston area's most vibrant coworking spaces, Workbar is a short walk from the MBTA South Station and Downtown Crossing stops. It is also a short walk from the Orange Line (Chinatown or Downtown Crossing stops) and the Green Line (Boylston or Park Street stops). Metered parking is available on surrounding streets, and the closest garage is at 236 Essex Street between Atlantic Ave. and South Street. (For those looking for budget parking, the Boston Common garage is about a 10-minute walk and just $12 for the night when entering after 4 pm.)

Come out, meet and network with your fellow freelancers, and get some tips from an expert. The discussion promises to be lively, inspiring, and informative. We look forward to seeing you.

Health Care Panel: Brookline Library

Monday, November 18, 2013

Please join us at Brookline Library's Hunneman Hall (6:00 - 7:30 p.m.) for a timely discussion of navigating health care options available through the Affordable Care Act. Expert representatives from the Massachusetts Health Connector, Healthcare for All, and Neighborhood Health Plan will lay out the basics and answer your questions.

Meet the panelists:

** Audrey Gasteier, Deputy Director of Policy and Research and Director of Employer Policy at the Massachusetts Health Connector. Among other roles, Ms. Gasteier is a member of the senior team leading the implementation of the exchange-related components of national health care reform in Massachusetts.

** Patricia Rich, Director of Commercial Sales, Neighborhood Health Plan. Ms. Rich's credentials, over more than twenty years in the health insurance market, include developing relationships with virtually every health, dental, and ancillary insurance carrier in Massachusetts and Rhode Island.

** Kate Bicego, Consumer Assistance Program Manager, Health Care For All. Ms. Bicego leads HCFA's HelpLine, which fields almost 40,000 calls a year and is a national model for consumer health assistance programs. Her leadership has helped HCFA create an invaluable feedback loop between the State House, health care policy makers, and consumer health advocates.

Can't wait to see you all. Refreshments will be served.

The Brookline Library is located at 361 Washington St. Parking is available on street, and the library also has an underground garage (for more information, see www.brooklinelibrary.org/about/directions).

Meet the New Coordinators, Etc.: Revised Date and Location

Tuesday, September 17, 2013

Fall is near, and we've firmed up the date and location for our upcoming chapter meeting. It'll be Tues. Sept. 17 at the Cambridge Brewing Company in Kendall Square, from 6:30 to 8 p.m. We've reserved a section of the bar.

At the meeting, we’ll share our lineup of speakers and events for the fall and winter. We’d love to meet EFAers in the Boston area and hear your ideas for chapter activities and events.

Looking forward . . .

"Still Giving Thanks"

Monday, November 26, 2012

"Still Giving Thanks" is to be the theme of the next meeting of the Boston-area chapter of the Editorial Freelancers Association. This get-together is slated for Monday, November 26, at the usual time and address (at 6:15 in the evening, at the Robbins Library, 700 Mass. Ave., Arlington, Mass.), in the basement Community Room.

Mark your calendars, and please let me know if you think that you may be able to join us.

"Fruits of Self's Labors"

Thursday, August 30, 2012

"Fruits of Self's Labors" is to be the theme of the next meeting of the Boston-area chapter of the Editorial Freelancers Association. This get-together is slated for Thursday, August 30, at the usual time and address (at 6:15 in the evening, at the Robbins Library, 700 Mass. Ave., Arlington, Mass.), in the basement Community Room.

Mark your calendars, and please let me know if you think that you may be able to join us.

What Is Hot

Monday, July 30, 2012

"What is hot" is to be the way cool theme of the next meeting of the Boston-area chapter of the Editorial Freelancers Association. This get-together is slated for Monday, July 30, at the usual time and address (at 6:15 in the evening, at the Robbins Library, 700 Mass. Ave., Arlington, Mass.), in the basement Community Room.

Mark your calendars, and please let me know if you think that you may
be able to join us.

Time & Place for Face Time

Monday, June 25, 2012

This get-together is slated for Monday, June 25, at the usual time and
address (at 6:15 in the evening, at the Robbins Library, 700 Mass. Ave., Arlington, Mass.), in the basement Community Room.

Mark your calendars, and please let me know if (despite the rather short notice) you think that you may be able to join us.

Blossom, Lovely Metaphor!

Tuesday, May 22, 2012

"Blossom, Lovely Metaphor!" is to be the theme of the next meeting of
the Boston-area chapter of the Editorial Freelancers Association. This
get-together is slated for Tuesday, May 22, at the usual time and address (at 6:15 in the evening, at the Robbins Library, 700 Mass. Ave., Arlington, Mass.), in the basement Community Room.

Steps in the Spring

Thursday, April 19, 2012

"Steps in the Spring" is to be the theme of the next meeting of the Boston-area chapter of the Editorial Freelancers Association. This get-together is slated for Thursday, April 19, at the usual time and address (at 6:15 in the evening, at the Robbins Library, 700 Mass. Ave., Arlington, Mass.), in the basement Community Room.

Mark your calendars, and please let me know if you think that you may be able to join us.

Gloriously Laborious

Tuesday, August 30, 2011

"Gloriously Laborious" is to be the theme of the next meeting of the
Boston-area chapter of the Editorial Freelancers Association. This
get-together is slated for Tuesday, August 30, at the usual time and
address (at 6:15 in the evening, at the Robbins Library, 700 Mass. Ave.,
Arlington, Mass.), in the basement Community Room.

Mark your calendars, and please let me know if you think that you may be
able to join us.

Chuck Brandstater

Transcending Boundaries

Tuesday, July 26, 2011

"Transcending Boundaries" is to be the theme of the next meeting of the Boston-area chapter of the Editorial Freelancers Association. This get-together is slated for Tuesday, July 26, at the usual time and address(at 6:15 in the evening, at the Robbins Library, 700 Mass. Ave., Arlington, Mass.), in the basement Community Room.

Mark your calendars, and please let me know if you think that you may be able to join us.

Chuck Brandstater

It's About Time

Monday, June 27, 2011

"It's About Time" is to be the timely theme of the next meeting of the Boston-area chapter of the Editorial Freelancers Association. This get-together is slated for Monday, June 27, at the usual time and address (at 6:15 in the evening, at the Robbins Library, 700 Mass. Ave., Arlington, Mass.), in the basement Community Room.

Mark your calendars, and please let me know if you think that you may be able to join us.

Chuck Brandstater

Cheerfully Constructing a Client Cornucopia

Monday, December 20, 2010

"Cheerfully Constructing a Client Cornucopia" is to be the lightly seasoned theme of the next meeting of the Boston-area chapter of the Editorial Freelancers Association. This get-together is slated for Monday, December 20, at the usual time and address (at 6:15 in the evening, at the Robbins Library, 700 Mass. Ave., Arlington, Mass.), in the basement Community Room.

Mark your calendars, and please let me know if you think that you may be able to join us.

Spurred by Synaptic Serendipity

Monday, November 22, 2010

What are some key things that you have learned recently outside school, with how much or indeed how little planning? This and other perhaps randomly identified questions are "slated" to be addressed at this event, scheduled for Monday, November 22, at the usual time and address (at 6:15 in the evening, at the Robbins Library, 700 Mass. Ave., Arlington, Mass.), in the basement Community Room.

Mark your calendars, and please let me know if you think that you may be able to join us.

"Made May Flower?"

Tuesday, May 25, 2010

"Made May Flower?" shall be the theme of the next meeting of the Boston-area chapter of the Editorial Freelancers Association. This event will be taking place on Tuesday, May 25, at the usual time and address (at 6:15 in the evening, at the Robbins Library, 700 Mass. Ave., Arlington, Mass.), in the basement Community Room.

October Feast

Tuesday, October 13, 2009

"October Feast" is to be the cheery theme of the next meeting of the Boston-area chapter of the Editorial Freelancers Association. This event will be taking place on Tuesday, October 13, at the usual time and address (at 6:15 in the evening, at the Robbins Library, 700 Mass. Ave., Arlington, Mass.), in the basement Community Room.

Mark your calendars, and please let me know if you think that you may be able to join us.

Breathing Exercise

Wednesday, August 6, 2008

Potential topics of discussion at that speedily approaching get-together will include strategies for dealing with waits (1) between projects, (2) before a first committed-to project for a client, (3) for feedback on a current project, (4) for staged delivery of materials on a current project, or (5) for compensation. (Takes deep breath.)

Defining a Largely Online Presence

Monday, June 9, 2008

What have you been doing or considering doing to enhance your online presence? Blogs or Web pages? Entries in the member directories for the professional associations you belong to? Or in subscriber directories for discussion groups you're subscribed to that have them? What about entries in LinkedIn, Facebook, MySpace, or services comparable to these? This was the theme of the June meeting of the Boston-area chapter.

Shoring Up Previously Much-Used Skills

Tuesday, April 22, 2008

Have you found that skills acquired in or soon after high school and not much used since are — or until recently were — just a little refreshing short of coming in very handy again? Spring having sprung, such will be the theme of the next meeting. We'll meet in the basement Community Room of the Robbins Library, 700 Massachusetts Avenue, Arlington, MA. Mark your calendars, and please write Boston chapter coordinator Chuck Brandstater if you plan on attending.

Novelty Near November

Monday, November 5, 2007

Discussion of marketing and work approaches was the focus of the Boston chapter's November meeting.

Soloist in Orchestra or Band?

Thursday, June 28, 2007

What sizes and types of clients was the subject of the Boston chapter's June meeting.

What April Showers Are Bearing Fruit?

Wednesday, May 9, 2007

The theme of this meeting was marketing. It was held jointly with the New England Chapter of the American Society of Indexers.

Spring to Spring

Monday, March 19, 2007

How to shift gears to mark the new season was the topic of discussion at this Boston chapter meeting.

Indexing with Heather Hedden

Tuesday, December 5, 2006

Especially for us folks back east, the peripatetic Heather Hedden, president of the New England Chapter of the American Society of Indexers (NEASI), graciously agreed to repeat her recent talk on freelance indexing at the Massachusetts chapter.

"It was a ducky, storied night"

Monday, October 30, 2006

The meeting was held on Monday the 30th (and what better way to mark the imminence of All Ain'ts Eve?) at the usual time and address, in the basement Community Room.

How Global the Village?

Monday, September 25, 2006

How Global the Village? How distinctive are the payment mechanisms and prior client-acquisition mechanisms you use (perhaps corresponding in a tongue not your own, for example) in the case of international clients, and how do they work for you?"

Labor to live or vice versa: the perennial balancing act

Monday, August 28, 2006

'Twas a week before Labor Day, and all that was said ... ' but I'm getting somewhat ahead of myself here. Our next meeting, to be in a somewhat different space. Specifically, we were in the 4th-floor conference room. (Mightn't "well-fed" be a nice way to conclude that first verse?)

What Price Independence

Monday, July 31, 2006

Somewhat following and somewhat in the spirit of Independence Day, a meeting wherein we discussed "What Price Independence". (What is most of value about freelancing, at what cost, and do factors such as globalization work advantageously or otherwise: These are potential agenda items, in a manner of speaking.)

To Take or Not Take Tests: Is That a Question?

Wednesday, May 31, 2006

Naming That Price

Thursday, April 20, 2006

"Naming That Price" was the theme. The idea was to share thoughts on deciding what to propose to charge, what proposed payment levels to consider, and where to compromise.

Picking and Choosing (or Occasionally Compensating)

Thursday, March 23, 2006

We shared thoughts on how to assess whether a potential project is apt to be dreamy, just adequate, a learning experience at best, or disastrous, and on how to make the best of such less-than-desired situations as may arise.

The "Unslow" Season

Monday, November 21, 2005

The Tricky 'Treat' Issue: Garnering the Right Amount of Billable Work

Monday, October 31, 2005

Boo.

Networking with 'Siblings' and 'Cousins'

Wednesday, August 24, 2005

Rewards of Freelancing

Wednesday, July 27, 2005

Developing and Maintaining Healthy Client Relations, Phase 2

Tuesday, June 28, 2005

Developing and Maintaining Healthy Client Relations

Wednesday, May 25, 2005

Freelancing through the holiday season

Wednesday, December 15, 2004

How does the holiday season figure in your freelancing business? Do you send clients and potential clients seasonal greetings or even useful little gifts? Do you assess your business situation afresh and make New Year's Resolutions about it? Do you make a point of taking some time off? No need to answer now, but do bring your thoughts to the meeting.

Leveraging Memberships

Monday, November 8, 2004

Health Insurance

Tuesday, October 12, 2004

Finding, getting found by, and working with international clients

Tuesday, August 3, 2004

Getting Paid (and arranging for payment ahead of time)

Wednesday, April 7, 2004

Identifying Niche Markets

Thursday, December 4, 2003

Written Contracts and Less Formal Arrangements

Monday, November 3, 2003

Brainstorming on Marketing Tactics

Thursday, April 24, 2003

Fine tune your résumé

Thursday, January 30, 2003

Ready to dust off that New Year's Resolution about fine-tuning your résumé or brochure? Here's your chance! (Along the way, you get to help colleagues to act on their own NYR.)

Annual Meeting Report

Thursday, July 26, 2001

The July 26, 2001 meeting of EFA Boston, attended by 18 people (including several repeaters), resulted in a basic plan for meeting dates and topics through April 2002. These plans are TENTATIVE; the structure and format is a work in progress. Details for meetings will follow as we get closer to each date.

Jana and Molly Set the Tone for July 26 and Future Meetings

Chuck asked if anyone wanted to suggest a topic for the next meeting. We (Molly and Jana) think it would be great for us to put our heads together to brainstorm about what EFA Boston and these meetings could be. We know that we need a chance to meet, mingle, trade stories and inside info, and grab some stimulation from other editorial pros.

We also know that without some thoughtful planning by the entire group, the potential for these meetings may not be realized. We'd like to propose this next meeting be an all-out ideas session about how to make this group happen. Come and noodle with us about questions such as —

What do you want out of this group?

What would make you absolutely come to the meetings?

Should meetings be held on a standard date (such as the first Tuesday of every month, for example), to help with a sense of continuity?

Should we hold meetings in different places once in awhile? At the MFA? By the Charles? On the Common? At the Boston Public Library? Should we have a games night once in awhile?

Should we be serious once in awhile and rope in a guest speaker?

Should we set up a resource-sharing network, for people interested in sharing office or other resources?

If the group is large enough, should we think about creating smaller groups (interest groups?) in order to get to know each other better?

With so much collective intelligence in one room, we're bound to find myriad ways to make EFA Boston meetings the professional support (with some fun thrown in) that will make them a "must" on our calendars.

If anyone knows of a place where we can meet (someplace with tables for games nights and chairs for topic nights), please contact Molly.

Meet the New Coordinators: New Date, Time, and Location

Wednesday, December 31, 1969

Fall is nearing, and plans are now set for the first gathering under the chapter's new coordinators, Kristie Reilly and Jason Warshof. We'll be at the bar at the Cambridge Brewing Company in Kendall Square.

Meet the New Coordinators: Revised Date and Location

Wednesday, December 31, 1969

Fall is near, and we've firmed up our plans for the upcoming chapter meeting. The date is now Tuesday Sept. 17, from 6:30 to 8 p.m.; the location is the Cambridge Brewing Company in Kendall Square. We've reserved a section of the bar and look forward to meeting everyone.

Upcoming Meetings -- and a New Yahoo! Group

Wednesday, December 31, 1969

The Boston chapter meet and greet in September was a success! Active and potential Boston-area members of the EFA met, networked, and discussed chapter activities for autumn and into next year. With a number of workshops planned for future monthsâ��on topics ranging from healthcare to taxes and starting out freelancing to invoicing and bookkeepingâ��we encourage all Boston-area members to watch their email for an invite to a new, Boston- and New England-specific Yahoo! group, and to join the discussion as we shape our program for the winter months. Look for details about events in November and December coming soon!

April Meet and Greet

Wednesday, December 31, 1969

Thanks to everyone who came to Rick Bornstein's very informative March talk about freelancer and sole proprietor taxes! We heard a number of helpful tips, including the benefits of incorporating, what to write off, and how to use HSAs.

In April, we'll be taking some time off to relax and chat with colleagues for a meet and greet! If you haven't come to an EFA event before, we'd love to see you. Likely location Cambridge Brewing Company in Kendall Square; watch for date and time TBA.

April meet and greet

Wednesday, December 31, 1969

Thanks to everyone who came to Rick Bornstein's very informative March talk about freelancer and sole proprietor taxes! We heard a number of helpful tips, including the benefits of incorporating, what to write off, and how to use HSAs.

In April, we'll be taking some time off to relax and chat with colleagues for a meet and greet! If you haven't come to an EFA event before, we'd love to see you. Details TBA.

April meet and greet

Wednesday, December 31, 1969

Thanks to everyone who came to Rick Bornstein's very informative March talk about freelancer and sole proprietor taxes! We heard a number of helpful tips, including the benefits of incorporating, what to write off, and how to use HSAs.

In April, we'll be taking some time off to relax and chat with colleagues for a meet and greet! If you haven't come to an EFA event before, we'd love to see you. Details TBA.

The Freelance Editor's Toolbox: What You Need to Know to Get the Job

Wednesday, December 31, 1969

Fellow EFA members and seasoned freelancers Tanya Gold and Randall Warniers will present a talk entitled “The Freelance Editor's Toolbox: What You Need to Know to Get the Job." If you’re wondering how to get started as a freelance editor or expand your client base, this talk is for you. They’ll explore best practices for marketing and promotion, reaching out to new clients, landing freelance gigs, and cultivating professional relationships that last. As EFAers, we're often our own best resource, so Randall and Tanya will lead an interactive workshop with plenty of time for us all to share tips and tricks with one another.

To a large extent, freelancers succeed based on their ability to use time. In this fun, interactive workshop, productivity expert Hillary Rettig, author of the best-selling 7 Secrets of The Prolific, will share the techniques exceptional time managers use to be as productive as possible. She will also discuss the causes of procrastination and other forms of underproductivity, and provide solutions you can start using immediately to boost your productivity. All the techniques discussed can be found in Rettig's book, which she will be selling at the event at the special discounted price of $20 (cash or check only).
Rettig taught writing productivity at Grub Street Writers for more than a decade, and has also taught at the Mark Twain House & Museum and many other venues both online and offline. Her next book, How to Get Willpower for Weight Loss, applies time management and antiprocrastination techniques to that goal, and will be out this year. Rettig, a native New Yorker and longtime Bostonian, now enjoys life with her partner and dogs in Kalamazoo, Michigan. For more on Hillary and her work, visit www.hillaryrettig.com.
Networking and libations will follow post the event; we encourage you to arrive early to browse the bookstore and to take advantage of Trident’s excellent food, wine, and beer during the presentation to support this outstanding Boston institution. RSVPs requested. (Print tickets not required.)
We look forward to seeing you!

Secrets of Exceptional Time Managers

Wednesday, December 31, 1969

To a large extent, freelancers succeed based on their ability to use time. In this fun, interactive workshop, productivity expert Hillary Rettig, author of the best-selling 7 Secrets of The Prolific, will share the techniques exceptional time managers use to be as productive as possible. She will also discuss the causes of procrastination and other forms of underproductivity, and provide solutions you can start using immediately to boost your productivity. All the techniques discussed can be found in Rettig's book, which she will be selling at the event at the special discounted price of $20 (cash or check only).

Rettig taught writing productivity at Grub Street Writers for more than a decade, and has also taught at the Mark Twain House & Museum and many other venues both online and offline. Her next book, How to Get Willpower for Weight Loss, applies time management and antiprocrastination techniques to that goal, and will be out this year. Rettig, a native New Yorker and longtime Bostonian, now enjoys life with her partner and dogs in Kalamazoo, Michigan. For more on Hillary and her work, visit www.hillaryrettig.com.

Networking and libations will follow post the event; we encourage you to arrive early to browse the bookstore and to take advantage of Trident’s excellent food, wine, and beer during the presentation to support this outstanding Boston institution. RSVPs requested. (Print tickets not required.)

We look forward to seeing you!

Secrets of Exceptional Time Managers

Wednesday, December 31, 1969

To a large extent, freelancers succeed based on their ability to use time. In this fun, interactive workshop, productivity expert Hillary Rettig, author of the best-selling 7 Secrets of The Prolific, will share the techniques exceptional time managers use to be as productive as possible. She will also discuss the causes of procrastination and other forms of underproductivity, and provide solutions you can start using immediately to boost your productivity. All the techniques discussed can be found in Rettig's book, which she will be selling at the event at the special discounted price of $20 (cash or check only).

Rettig taught writing productivity at Grub Street Writers for more than a decade, and has also taught at the Mark Twain House & Museum and many other venues both online and offline. Her next book, How to Get Willpower for Weight Loss, applies time management and antiprocrastination techniques to that goal, and will be out this year. Rettig, a native New Yorker and longtime Bostonian, now enjoys life with her partner and dogs in Kalamazoo, Michigan. For more on Hillary and her work, visit www.hillaryrettig.com.

Networking and libations will follow post the event; we encourage you to arrive early to browse the bookstore and to take advantage of Trident’s excellent food, wine, and beer during the presentation to support this outstanding Boston institution. RSVPs requested. (Print tickets not required.)

We look forward to seeing you!

Defining Your Personal Brand

Wednesday, December 31, 1969

A brand is a promise of value. You experience this concept every day when you seek out brands you recognize and products you trust. Similarly, your personal brand is a clear and concise communication of who you are, what you do, and what you offer to the world of work. It encompasses not only your job skills but your interests, activities, dreams, and passions as well. Like a good corporate brand, your personal brand represents you in the minds of others and in the employment marketplace. The more effectively you are branded, the more visible you will be, and the more clearly you will express your value as a person and as an employee. This presentation will answer the question: What is a personal brand, why do I need one, and where can I get one? The talk will include a description of all the branding components, and how to frame the content of these components to your own purpose.
Randall Warniers is a freelance editor, book designer, and book publisher who spent nearly two decades in the world of publishing as managing editor of a research journal at MIT Lincoln Laboratory. He is also a photographer and a photography instructor at the Cambridge Center for Adult Education, an instructor in 19th-century British literature at Acton-Boxborough Community Education, and a facilitator and member of the leadership team at Acton Networkers.

The closest T stop is Downtown Crossing. The entrance to the building is on Devonshire Street. Please check in at the desk! The meeting begins at 6:30 pm, but come early for networking at Render Coffee, the cafe on the ground floor, beginning at 5:30 pm. (Buy your own drinks and baked goods.)

EFA members and friends are welcome. RSVPs appreciated but not required. RSVP at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/defining-your-personal-brand-tickets-27526033106

Defining Your Personal Brand with Randall Warniers

Wednesday, December 31, 1969

A brand is a promise of value. You experience this concept every day when you seek out brands you recognize and products you trust. Similarly, your personal brand is a clear and concise communication of who you are, what you do, and what you offer to the world of work. It encompasses not only your job skills but your interests, activities, dreams, and passions as well. Like a good corporate brand, your personal brand represents you in the minds of others and in the employment marketplace. The more effectively you are branded, the more visible you will be, and the more clearly you will express your value as a person and as an employee. This presentation will answer the question: What is a personal brand, why do I need one, and where can I get one? The talk will include a description of all the branding components, and how to frame the content of these components to your own purpose.
Randall Warniers is a freelance editor, book designer, and book publisher who spent nearly two decades in the world of publishing as managing editor of a research journal at MIT Lincoln Laboratory. He is also a photographer and a photography instructor at the Cambridge Center for Adult Education, an instructor in 19th-century British literature at Acton-Boxborough Community Education, and a facilitator and member of the leadership team at Acton Networkers.